New To Cruising? These 5 Cruise Traditions May Surprise You

Collecting rubber ducks is a modern cruise tradition that adds a fun twist for families.
Modern cruise ships offer everything from skydiving simulators to fine dining, but many of the most cherished vacation memories come from simpler cruise traditions that have stood the test of time.
With megaships continuing to redefine the modern cruise experience, a handful of traditions continue to connect passengers with the unique culture of life at sea, no matter the age and size of the vessel.
It begins almost as soon as you board. As the ship pulls away from port, passengers gather on deck for an upbeat celebration of the journey ahead. A sailaway party is part farewell, part kickoff, with live music, dancing and drinks in hand.
Cruise staff often lead dances while guests wave to people onshore or toast the start of their holiday. For many first-timers, it's the moment the cruising experience really begins.
One thing to keep in mind: wait staff often circulate the deck offering trays of sparkling wine or signature cocktails. These drinks can appear complimentary, but they are usually charged to your onboard account unless you have a beverage package.
It's an easy mistake to make in the excitement of the moment, so check before accepting to avoid an awkward moment in your first hours aboard.
While many cruise lines have relaxed their dress codes in recent years, formal night remains a highlight for guests who enjoy dressing up.
Formal nights are an ideal opportunity to get some memorable photographs while on a cruise.
Typically held once or twice on a typical cruise, a formal evening invites passengers to wear cocktail dresses, suits, or even tuxedos before posing for professional photos and heading to dinner and a show.
Many cruise lines have scaled back the tradition, offering optional 'gala nights' or introducing a 'dress to impress' theme rather than enforcing strict attire.
Cunard is a notable exception. The storied line maintains a more traditional atmosphere, with smart dress required every evening in most venues and formal nights calling for black tie and elegant evening wear.
It's worth checking your cruise line's dress code in advance so you can pack appropriately. Whether you choose to go all out or simply elevate your usual style, formal night is a fun opportunity to embrace the glamour of cruising.
Don't like the idea? No problem! Even the most formal of cruise lines offer options for those who don't want to go the extra mile on a formal night. Food and drinks are usually available from a buffet restaurant or via room service.
On most cruise ships, cabin doors are metal, making them the perfect blank canvas for decoration with magnets.
Many guests bring personalised or themed decorations to help find their room in a long corridor of identical doors, or simply show off their hobbies, interests or hometown.
Most popular on American cruise lines, these magnetic displays have become a playful way to make your space feel more personal and festive. Just bear in mind that not all cruise ships feature magnetic doors, so do some research before spending a lot of money on custom decorations.
Returning to your cabin after dinner to find a towel animal on your bed is a small but delightful tradition that many cruisers come to love.
Cruise ship housekeeping crew may surprise you with a towel animal.
From swans and elephants to monkeys hanging from coat hangers, these playful creations add a touch of whimsy to your day.
They're usually made by your cabin steward as a thank-you for friendly interaction during the day, so a smile and a kind word can go a long way. While not guaranteed, towel animals are often seen as a little extra gesture of hospitality from housekeeping staff who work hard behind the scenes.
Some cruise lines even offer towel-folding workshops so passengers can try their hand at the art form. Keep an eye on your daily schedule and you might just pick up a fun new skill.
A relatively recent addition to cruise culture, the cruise duck trend has quickly gained popularity among passengers of all ages, thanks to the power of social media.
The idea is simple: guests hide small rubber ducks around the ship for others to find. Many are tagged with the hider's name, the ship and sailing date, or a link to a social media profile. Others are left anonymously in creative spots, simply to bring a smile to someone's day.
Entire Facebook groups and cruise forums embrace the tradition, with cruisers sharing photos of their finds and tracking ducks from ship to ship. For many families, it becomes an unexpected highlight of a voyage. It's pure light-hearted fun, for kids and big kids alike.

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